FIFA Plans to Break the Rest Rule

The British newspaper The Times reported that FIFA intends to extend the halftime break in the 2026 World Cup final in North America to approximately 30 minutes, to make way for a large-scale artistic show modeled after the American Football League’s halftime performance, despite the sport’s regulations capping the break at 15 minutes.

According to the newspaper, BBC and ITV plan to broadcast the artistic show, which will last around 11 minutes, while also allocating sufficient time to analyze first-half events, taking advantage of the extra time needed to set up and dismantle the stage.

FIFA has not officially confirmed the duration of the break, but it previously exceeded the permitted limit in last year’s Club World Cup final, when the halftime break lasted 25 minutes.

The halftime show is expected to feature a number of global stars. Additionally, a closing ceremony will take place 90 minutes before the match kicks off.